Gabriella Louise Wisdom

Norwich University of the Arts
Fashion BA with HONS
First Class Degree

Who do you work for, and what projects have you been involved in?
Currently working at K West Hotel & Spa in West London.
I am responsible for booking all corporate meetings, private dining events and elaborate parties/after parties for the hotel. Some of my clients include, LEGO, Universal Music and Krispy Kreme.

What is a ‘typical day at work like?
My job is primarily based on administration and contractual work. There is a lot of corresponding with clients and organisation that goes into events. The most important factor of my job depends of communication across departments to make sure all the factors that goes into a killer party or event goes accordingly. I conduct weekly meetings, wine and dine clients, attend events and create them.

What did you study at Paston? How did that course help you progress upon your career path?
Textiles is a creative subject that steered me towards fashion and my love of the arts. The technical expertise I learnt in Textiles and developed throughout my Fashion degree have provided me with unbelievably useful skills that I can always fall back on. Textiles at Paston gave me the opportunity to organise and produce the fashion shows which contributed to my career in Event Management. The great thing about art subjects is that the career paths are endless, the ability to work with a creative mind puts you in great stead for the future.
Film Studies is an analytical course which depends on an art form. It is a great subject for developing essay writing and the ability to critically analyse methodology whilst still being involved with an arts subject. It’s perfect for preparing yourself to embark on your dissertation should you wish to take a degree in the arts.
Performance helped develop my self confidence which is vital with a customer facing job. It’s great for getting over fears of public speaking and giving presentations. It has served me well for all the regular meetings I conduct in my current job.

What are the important skills you have had to develop and hone to be successful in your job?
Public speaking, computer admin, strategic planning, business planning, budgeting, working to tight deadlines, proactive sales and reactive sales.

Did you ever envisage doing this while you were at Paston?
No, but I’ve never really knew what I wanted to do. I’m quite lucky in that my subjects, experience and qualifications have allowed me to go down different paths. There is a lot of pressure to pick the best subjects at college and university but as long as you are passionate about what you do you can sell yourself for any direction you wish to take. Paston’s mix of supported and independent learning is great for realising your potential and that with effort and dedication you can do whatever you want to do.

What did you do in the year immediately after graduating?
I moved with my partner (who I met at college - you never know what you’ll take away from Paston!) to Paris to live and work there for a year. I worked as an English Language Instructor whilst exploring every inch of the city before heading to London to pick up a full time job.

"Performance helped develop my self confidence which is vital with a customer facing job. It’s great for getting over fears of public speaking and giving presentations. It has served me well in my current job."